This year, Bay Trail Middle School band directors Jeremy Stringer, Matt Doi, and Madeline Morizio launched the first-ever Penfield Family Band. More than 50 students, staff, and family members have been rehearsing weekly in preparation for their inaugural concert, to be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, in the Bay Trail Auditorium. 

Open to students at Bay Trial and Penfield High School and their parents and families, as well as faculty and staff in the District, the band’s repertoire includes 11 pieces, from the contemporary Seven Nation Army by the White Stripes to the thrillingly orchestral Escape from Thunder Mountain and the iconic theme from Pirates of the Caribbean.

Among the intergenerational musicians are David and Carole Teegarden and their grandson Elliot. Now enjoying retirement, the Teegardens decided to learn clarinet, taking lessons through New Horizons, which offers lessons and group playing opportunities for senior citizens through the Eastman Community Music School.  Their grandson, Elliot Teegarden, an eighth grader at Bay Trial, plays the alto sax.

“One thing that really impresses me is the effort and the commitment that Penfield puts into the music program,” said David Teegarden. “It’s very impressive that they put such an emphasis on music, and we’re having a great time.”

Carole Teegarden said she enjoys performing the medley of songs from Wicked, while Elliot performs Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes.

Holly Kluge, who is a 2003 graduate of Penfield High School, plays percussion in the band. In high school, Kluge played percussion and drums and stayed active in music as an adult, singing and playing guitar. She was excited for the opportunity to re-engage with percussion and at the chance to perform alongside her son, Matthew, who plays trumpet. They both agreed that Aztec Fire is their favorite piece to perform.

“It has a great snare drum part,” Kluge said with a smile.

For Kluge, who said she looks back on her music education with fondness, joining the Penfield Family Band is a full-circle moment.

“I’m just so glad Penfield is doing this. It feels so good to be back in the District that has always had a really special place in my heart as a musician,” she said. “It’s very cool to experience with my son.”